GOLD Coast United supremo Clive Palmer is hoping to persuade Chinese defender Sun Jihai to swap Manchester for the Australian sunshine.
The billionaire club owner has instructed coach Miron Bleiberg to look to top Chinese talent when assembling his first squad.
Coach Bleiberg told goldcoast.com.au: "Sun is a preferred target. He's a top quality player.
"He has proved himself in the best league in the world over the years, and now with China out of the World Cup and Sun being out of contract at Manchester City, it could be an opportune time for us."
Palmer said: "China is a massive economy on our doorstep and I want us to embrace it, there's much to gain on both sides.
"Though they didn't make the World Cup, China has great players and we aim to bring some of them here."
Coach Bleiberg told goldcoast.com.au: "Sun is a preferred target. He's a top quality player.
"He has proved himself in the best league in the world over the years, and now with China out of the World Cup and Sun being out of contract at Manchester City, it could be an opportune time for us."
Palmer said: "China is a massive economy on our doorstep and I want us to embrace it, there's much to gain on both sides.
"Though they didn't make the World Cup, China has great players and we aim to bring some of them here."
Related Articles
Fresh talent flock to ambitious A-League outfit's pro pathway
Why A-League 20/21 is crucial for Olyroos’ medal hopes
